On Christmas and birthdays, I
sometimes receive things I either have too much of (like coffee mugs) or will never use (like cologne). Is it rude to regift these items to someone who might actually use them?
Believe it or not, regifting unwanted presents can be done in a tactful way – if you follow a few simple rules. When regifting, always make sure you regift outside of that social circle; for example, if your co-worker gives you a coffee mug during Secret Santa, don’t turn around and give it to another colleague. You never want the original gift-giver to find out you’ve regifted their gift. Instead, you might pass the mug along to your brother-in-law. Another consideration is used vs. brand-new items. Anything brand-new is fair game, but items that have been opened or used should either be sold, kept, or donated. If the gift is handmade, or if it has special significance to the gift-giver, don’t give it away; when someone takes the extra time to make you something, it’s considered bad form to regift it. Similarly, if you are gifted homemade food (say, freshly baked brownies) that you aren’t planning to eat, simply share the treats rather than framing them as a gift for another person. Finally, be thoughtful when you’re regifting. Instead of getting rid of the unwanted item at your first opportunity, consider who in your life might truly appreciate the gift – after all, it’s the thought that counts.